Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Its Associated Factors among Pregnant Women Attending Rabia Balkhi Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan, in 1402: A Retrospective Cross‑Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus refers to glucose intolerance that develops during pregnancy and may lead to serious complications for both mother and fetus, such as preterm birth, cesarean section, and macrosomia. Factors such as age, weight, physical activity, history of diseases, hormonal factors, and genetic predisposition play a role in its occurrence.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study, and data were collected through the review of patients’ medical records. Sampling was performed using a consecutive sampling method. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS software, and the Chi-square test was used to assess associations between variables. A significance level of 0.05 and a confidence level of 95% were considered.

Results: Out of a total of 26,671 women who attended the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Rabia Balkhi Hospital, 357 women were diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus. Most affected women were older than 35 years. Multiple pregnancies, history of stillbirth, family history of diabetes, and previous history of gestational diabetes were among the major associated factors. Most patients were from urban areas, and low educational level, poor economic status, and limited physical activity were also common among them.

Conclusion: Gestational diabetes mellitus is one of the major health problems during pregnancy and may cause serious consequences for both mother and fetus. Early diagnosis, increasing awareness among pregnant women, improving dietary habits, encouraging physical activity, and giving special attention to women with risk factors may help reduce the prevalence and complications of this condition.